The Oregon Cheese Festival takes place this weekend! This is Oregon's annual spring cheese event and a great way to meet cheesemakers, talk about cheese and, perhaps more importantly, eat cheese. So think about heading on down to Central Point, Oregon (just north of Medford) for some fun, food and education. Here's a roundup of what's going on Friday, Saturday and Sunday:
On Friday March 14th, the Oregon Cheese Guild and Rogue Creamery are sponsoring a benefit dinner at the historic Ashland Springs Hotel. Guests will enjoy a five course dinner created by Chef Damon Jones, who has developed a menu highlighting Oregon's great artisan cheeses. Laura Werlin, author of four books including her most recent Cheese Essentialswill emcee the event. Tickets are $70 and can be ordered online here or by calling Rogue Creamery at 541-665-1155 x 163.

On Saturday March 15th, join Oregon cheesemakers at the Festival, which will be held at Rogue Creamery. This farmer's market style event will feature cheese, wine, beer and a variety of other Southern Oregon specialties such as chocolate from Lillie Belle Farms. Attendees can also learn more about cheese at several free classes being offered throughout the day:

On Sunday March 16th, stop by Pholia Farm (just a few miles up the road from Rogue Creamery) for their Spring Open House event. Pholia will be offering hayrides, plant tours and cheese and wine tasting....as an added bonus, you get to pet the cute baby Nigerian Dwarf Goats! See the website for more information and directions.